W - Glossary of lighting terms

Wall Bracket

Fixture designed to be mounted on a vertical surface, including sconces, urns and valances.

Wall-mount Fixtures

A broad term which refers to fixtures that provide general, task and accent lighting. Many wall-mount fixtures are designed to match and coordinate with dining room chandeliers or other lighting fixtures. Wall brackets are often used for task lighting at the bathroom mirror. They are available in a choice of incandescent, halogen and energy efficient compact fluorescent bulbs.

Wall Grazing

A lighting technique in which light is aimed down a wall for a grazing effect. For dramatic shadows, especially on textured surfaces such as brick, draperies or stone, mount the lights 6 to 12 inches from the wall, with the fixtures the same distance apart and aimed downward.

Wall Lighting

Lighting directed on a wall or vertical surface to emphasize that plane, enhance the surface texture, or bounce light back into the room. Increasing wall brightness generally makes a room seem more spacious.

Wall Washing

A lighting technique in which a wall is evenly washed with light. For most surfaces, mount the track 2 to 3 feet from the wall on ceiling up to 9 feet high. Mount between 3 and 4 feet on ceilings between 9 and 11 feet high. Space the fixtures the same distance apart for even light distribution.

Watt

A unit of electrical power.

Wattage

The amount of electricity consumed by a bulb.

Weathered

Distressed finish that simulates aging.

Wire Nut

Also called a solderless connector. Small plastic device that can be fastened over the bare, joined ends of several wires to protect and insulate the connection.

Wrought Iron

Soft iron that is hammered and bent into decorative shapes.